The Rooted Wild Podcast
A podcast for anyone curious about the joy of healing through leisure. We unpack the power of play, the wisdom of the outdoors, and the creative pulse that keeps us human — all in one curious, compassionate space.
Episodes
8 episodes
Recreation Therapy for Chronic Pain + Stress: Leisure Coping, Fibromyalgia, and Living Well Within Real Limits
Living with chronic pain and chronic stress requires more than willpower — it requires compassion, adaptation, and nervous system–informed support.In this episode, Katherine Winkles, CTRS-BH, explores how recreation therapy...
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Season 1
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Episode 7
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12:26
Creative Flow + Healing Expression
Why Art, Play, and Expression Regulate the Nervous SystemCreativity isn’t about talent — it’s about regulation, expression, and presence.In this episode, we explore how creative flow supports nervous system healing t...
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Season 1
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Episode 6
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11:11
Nature as Co-Therapist
Nature is more than a backdrop for wellness — it’s an active participant in healing.In this episode, we explore how nature functions as a co-therapist, supporting nervous system regulation, emotional processing, and stress recover...
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Season 1
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Episode 5
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13:08
Leisure Education: Learning How to Rest with Intention
In this episode, we explore one of the most overlooked skills in modern wellness: how to rest with intention. Drawing from the evidence-based foundations of recreation therapy, Katherine breaks down why rest is more than “taking time off...
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Season 1
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Episode 4
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12:44
The Science of Play: Why Joy Heals the Nervous System
If you’ve ever felt guilty for wanting more fun, rest, or creativity in your life… this episode is going to feel like a breath of fresh air. Today, we’re breaking down the science of why play isn’t optional — it’s a biological need that keeps y...
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Season 1
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Episode 3
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12:39
Coping with Holiday Overwhelm
A calming, evidence-informed grounding episode to support listeners facing holiday-related stress, sensory overload, grief, financial strain, or complicated family dynamics. Includes a guided check-in, nervous system science, coping strategies,...
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Season 1
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Episode 2
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13:12
What is Recreation Therapy? Restoring Wellness Through Play and Nature
If you’ve ever wondered what recreation therapy actually is — or how time outdoors, mindful play, and creativity can support your long-term wellness — today’s episode is the perfect place to start.In this kickoff episode, we break down t...
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Season 1
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Episode 1
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9:38